Infant Brain Development

Research shows that more rapid brain development takes place during the first three years of life than at any other time. Babies are born learning. Children need the right experiences, at the right times, for their brains to fully develop. These years are more critical to a child’s development than ever imagined.
 

At birth, an infant’s brain is only about one-fourth of its adult weight. Most of the brain’s cells are formed before birth. However, the majority of connections between these cells are not made until infancy and the toddler years. The brain of a child aged three is twice as active as an adult’s brain. Many factors influence brain development, including prenatal care, genetics, health, relationships, and experience. It is important to recognize cognitive developmental delays early.

Though a baby is born with most of his/her brain cells developed, it is through experience that the connections between these cells are formed. These experiences are based on the baby’s senses – touch, sight, taste, smell and hearing – and as the baby grows into a young child who begins to explore his/her world, the understanding that he gains through these senses shapes brain development.

This means - Infant and toddler caregivers have an awesome responsibility!

Related Training:
Infant and Toddler Care Training Package  - 26 Hours
Hour Infant and Toddler Focus - 45 Hours
Infant Care Series - 5 Hours
Infant Training Package - 10 Hours